Romen (mencey) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Romen |
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Statue of Romen in Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, Candelaria, Tenerife.
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| Reign | 15th century |
| Dynasty | Menceyato de Daute |
Romen was a Guanche king, known as a mencey, who ruled the kingdom of Menceyato de Daute on the island of Tenerife. He was a leader during the 15th century when the Spanish were trying to conquer the island.
Contents
Romen's Time as King
Facing the Spanish Invasion
When the Spanish leader Alonso Fernández de Lugo arrived in Tenerife in 1494, Romen had to make a big decision. He was the king of Daute, one of the nine Guanche kingdoms on the island. The Guanches were the native people of the Canary Islands.
Some stories say that Romen joined forces with Bencomo, another powerful Guanche king, to fight against the Spanish invaders. This meant his kingdom, Daute, became part of the "war side" of the island.
However, other historical accounts suggest that Romen did not want to ally with Bencomo. Some say he didn't want to be under Bencomo's command. Others believed Romen thought his kingdom was far enough away from the fighting and safe from the conquerors.
The End of the War
Despite the brave resistance, the main Guanche kings, including Bencomo, Tinguaro, and Bentor, were eventually defeated in battle.
In the spring of 1496, Romen decided to surrender his territory. This event is known as the Paz de Los Realejos (Peace of Los Realejos). After giving up his kingdom, Romen was taken to Spain to meet the Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella.
What Happened Next?
Romen's exact fate after his surrender is not fully known. Some believe he might have been taken as a slave, which was a common practice during that time for defeated leaders. Another idea is that he might have been given to the Republic of Venice by the Spanish kings.
However, other historians think that even though he was part of the war, he might have been set free. If he was freed, it would likely have been under supervision and far away from his home island of Tenerife.
See also
In Spanish: Romen para niños
